I have noticed lately that I often have dirt under my fingernails. Its kind of random because I am usually pretty particular about stuff like that, and I don’t really know what it means other than the fact that I don’t even have time to look at my nails. And what does that in itself mean?

I’m living life.

I think the root to many of life’s deepest problems is that people are running around not really living life. Instead of experiencing reality people are escaping into fantasy worlds. Instead of living in the moment people live in the past or the future or a moment that doesn’t even really exist. Making assumptions and creating things that aren’t reality either. And getting wrapped up in drama that isn’t even our own.

I think I’ve figured out how I can be healthier in life.

– First and foremost and always – submit to God’s direction and will.

– Regarding eating: Eat food especially when prepared by others, and when preparing food, make sure there are others to share it with. Feed as many people as possible.

– Regarding exercise: If someone invites me to move – move. Go on the bike ride or the walk. Stop what is perceived as important and focus on the moment. Be outdoors. Be active. And just be. And as a side note, finding a person to interact with is better than television. If there is no one around… go outside and find someone. You never know how God may be urging you to minister to someone that you don’t even know.

– Regarding health: Stop giving illnesses or ailments power. Illnesses or injuries do not stop life. I will not acknowledge that I am not feeling well. I will not give that power to something that is totally out of my control. It just is and I have to let it be but I cease worrying about it. However this also requires listening to my body and following its cues.

– Listen when someone is speaking without trying to figure out what I will be saying next. Just listen. It is an act of service and love, and a priviledge to hear the story of another of God’s creations.

– Speak only positive of any other person, and refuse to engage in negative talk with others (much easier said than done, but one of the most important things I think).

– Stop taking things personally. 99% of the time people’s behaviors have very little to do with me, so there is no need to read something into what someone says or does. It is a waste of energy and a foothold for the devil.

– Acknowledge that fear, anxiety and negativity are NOT from God. Therefore I refuse to let them dominate my life, and if they are dominating a moment I have to remind myself that…. these feelings are not from God therefore not worth my time.

– Love endlessly. Without judgment and without boundary.

– There is no “us” and “them”. Only US. We are all on the same team, all God’s creations, and all equal in God’s eyes. That’s a trip to think about when in the middle of conflict or anger, but its the truth. I have to learn from that.